The high-performance Ford Fiesta ST will make its American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show this week. The five-door Fiesta ST will get 197 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque from its 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. The most impressive part is the car's expected 34-mpg highway fuel mileage rating. A six-speed manual is the only transmission available.

The Fiesta ST and Focus ST cars are the result of combined efforts from Ford's Europe and American performance car teams.

The Fiesta ST will sport a unique grille, new rear diffuser and fascia extensions. Dual exhaust pipes sit in the rear along with a high-mounted spoiler. A set of 17-inch wheels sit at the corners. The Fiesta ST will also be the first of its nameplate to wear Ford's Molten Orange tri-coat metallic paint.

The Fiesta ST also gets quicker steering than the standard model. Ford says a unique suspension with modified front knuckles makes for a turning ratio of 13.6:1. Stiffness at the rear axle is improved, while the whole car sits about three-quarters of an inch lower.

The 2014 Ford Fiesta ST will come with a 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine making 197 hp. Photo by Ford

About the Los Angeles Auto Show

The Fiesta ST will debut with Ford's Torque Vectoring Control to reduce understeer during hard cornering maneuvers. The traction control system will include a sport mode, allowing extra slip before stepping in to protect the driver.

The Fiesta ST also uses the sound symposer found on the Ford Focus ST. The symposer feeds engine sounds back into the cabin to improve the sporty sensation.

Ford hasn't announced pricing yet but the Focus ST sits just below the top Titanium trim in its lineup. If the Fiesta ST keeps the same formula, it would come in with a sticker price around $18,000. The Fiesta ST arrives in dealerships in the spring.

The 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show takes place Nov. 28 through Dec. 9. In keeping with the Southern California lifestyle, the LA auto show is usually a showcase for green cars, hybrid vehicles and electric transportation. But sports cars – especially convertibles – also command the spotlight. Check out Autoweek's complete coverage of the Los Angeles Auto Show here.